Best Accounting Degrees in Glendale California

Key Takeaways

• Glendale Community College offers the most affordable entry point into accounting, with strong transfer pathways to CSU and UC systems.
• Nearby universities such as Woodbury University, California State University campuses, and USC provide bachelor’s and master’s pathways aligned with California CPA requirements.
• Accreditation, CPA exam eligibility, internship access, and job placement data are the most important factors when choosing an accounting degree.
• Glendale’s location within Los Angeles County provides direct access to major accounting firms, corporate finance departments, and CPA firms.
• Students should compare total cost, program format, and career support services before enrolling.

Why Study Accounting in Glendale, California?

Glendale sits within Los Angeles County, one of the largest economic hubs in the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, California employs more accountants and auditors than any other state. Accountants in the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim metro area earn mean annual wages exceeding $90,000, depending on specialization and experience.

For students, this means local access to internships, Big Four accounting firms, regional CPA practices, corporate finance departments, entertainment industry accounting roles, and growing technology startups. Studying accounting in Glendale combines affordable education options with proximity to one of the strongest job markets in the country.

Comparison of Top Accounting Programs Near Glendale

SchoolDegree LevelsAccreditationEstimated In-State TuitionBest ForGlendale Community CollegeAS in AccountingACCJC (WASC)Low community college ratesAffordable start, transfer pathwaysWoodbury University (Burbank)BS in AccountingWSCUCPrivate tuitionSmall class sizes, business-focused curriculumCSU Los AngelesBS, MS in AccountingAACSB Business AccreditationModerate public university ratesCPA preparation, strong alumni networkCSUN (Northridge)BS, MS in AccountancyAACSBModerate public university ratesCPA pipeline, industry connectionsUSC (Los Angeles)Bachelor’s, Master of AccountingAACSBHigher private tuitionElite reputation, Big Four placement

Detailed Breakdown of the Best Accounting Degrees

1. Glendale Community College (GCC)

Glendale Community College is the most cost-effective option for students beginning their accounting journey. GCC offers an Associate of Science in Accounting designed for immediate employment or transfer into a four-year program.

Why it stands out:

• Affordable tuition with strong financial aid access
• Transfer agreements with CSU and UC systems
• Flexible course scheduling for working adults

This pathway is ideal for students who plan to complete a bachelor’s degree later while minimizing debt.

2. Woodbury University

Located in nearby Burbank, Woodbury University offers a Bachelor of Science in Accounting within its School of Business. The program emphasizes ethical accounting practices, auditing, taxation, and financial reporting.

Best for: Students seeking smaller class sizes and individualized faculty mentorship.

Graduates are prepared for CPA-track progression, though students must ensure they meet California’s 150 semester-hour requirement through additional coursework if necessary.

3. California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA)

Cal State LA offers both undergraduate and graduate accounting degrees and is accredited by AACSB, the gold standard in business education.

Advantages:

• Strong CPA-aligned curriculum
• Active accounting student associations
• Recruiting access to mid-tier and Big Four firms

The Master of Science in Accounting is particularly attractive for students completing the 150 credit hours required for CPA licensure.

4. California State University, Northridge (CSUN)

CSUN’s David Nazarian College of Business offers highly regarded undergraduate and graduate accounting programs. Its AACSB accreditation and strong employer network enhance job placement outcomes.

Many CSUN graduates obtain positions at Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, EY, and regional Los Angeles firms. Internship pipelines are well developed, especially during tax season and summer audit cycles.

5. University of Southern California (USC)

USC’s Leventhal School of Accounting is nationally ranked. Its programs consistently produce high CPA pass rates and strong job placement statistics.

Though tuition is significantly higher than public institutions, USC offers unmatched networking access, alumni connectivity, and Big Four recruitment strength in Southern California.

Online and Part-Time Accounting Options

Students in Glendale also benefit from flexible learning formats. Many CSU campuses offer hybrid or evening accounting courses, making it easier for working professionals to complete their degrees.

Fully online accounting degrees are available from accredited institutions nationwide. However, students planning to sit for the California CPA exam must confirm that online coursework satisfies educational requirements set by the California Board of Accountancy.

Career Outlook for Accounting Graduates in Glendale

The Los Angeles metropolitan area remains a top employment market for accountants. Key local employment sectors include:

• Public accounting firms in Glendale, Pasadena, and Downtown Los Angeles
• Entertainment and media companies
• Healthcare systems
• Technology startups
• Municipal and state government agencies

Entry-level accounting salaries in the region typically range from $60,000 to $75,000, with CPA-certified professionals earning significantly more. Advancement into roles such as senior accountant, audit manager, controller, or CFO can substantially increase long-term earnings.

Pathway to Becoming a CPA in California

If your goal is CPA licensure, your education must meet California’s rigorous standards:

• 150 semester units of education
• Specified accounting and business coursework
• Passing all four sections of the Uniform CPA Examination
• Relevant supervised work experience

Many Glendale-area students complete a bachelor’s degree followed by a Master of Accounting to meet the 150-unit requirement efficiently. Choosing an AACSB-accredited business school strengthens CPA preparation and employer perception.

How to Choose the Right Accounting Program

1. Verify Accreditation

Look for regional institutional accreditation and, ideally, AACSB accreditation for business programs.

2. Compare Total Cost

Include tuition, fees, books, commuting costs, and potential lost wages if studying full time.

3. Evaluate CPA Preparation

Ask about CPA exam pass rates, review course integration, and faculty professional credentials.

4. Review Internship and Placement Support

Proximity to Los Angeles firms creates opportunity, but career services and recruiting relationships make the real difference.

5. Consider Class Format

Working students may prioritize evening, weekend, or hybrid schedules. Traditional students may focus on campus engagement and networking.

Who Should Pursue an Accounting Degree in Glendale?

An accounting degree is ideal for analytical thinkers who value stability, professional growth, and clear advancement pathways. Glendale’s educational ecosystem supports recent high school graduates, community college transfers, career changers, and aspiring CPAs alike.

With affordable community college entry points, respected CSU programs, and elite private options nearby, Glendale offers one of the most versatile accounting education landscapes in Southern California.

Frequently Asked Questions about Accounting Degrees in Glendale, California

Is Glendale Community College a good starting point for an accounting career?

Yes. Glendale Community College offers low tuition, an AS in Accounting, and clear transfer pathways to CSU and UC campuses, so you can start affordably and then move into a bachelor’s program if you choose.

Which nearby schools help you meet California CPA requirements?

Cal State LA, CSUN, and USC offer bachelor’s and master’s accounting programs that align with California’s 150–semester–unit rule for CPA licensure, with AACSB accreditation and CPA-focused coursework.

What should you look for when choosing an accounting program near Glendale?

You should confirm accreditation, check CPA exam alignment, compare total cost, and review internship and job placement support. Also make sure the class format (day, evening, online, or hybrid) fits your schedule.

What is the job outlook for accounting graduates in the Glendale and Los Angeles area?

You are in a strong job market. Los Angeles County has many roles in public accounting, entertainment, healthcare, tech, and government, with typical local entry-level salaries around $60,000–$75,000 a year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Can you become a CPA in California with an online or part-time accounting degree?

Yes, if the school is properly accredited and the courses meet California Board of Accountancy rules. You must still complete 150 semester units, required accounting and business classes, pass all CPA exam sections, and gain approved work experience.